AJ Dybantsa enters the 2025-26 NCAA season carrying high expectations. After a remarkable tenure with Utah Prep, the freshman will take the next step in his basketball journey with Brigham Young University (BYU).
Despite having offers from more traditional programs such as North Carolina, Alabama and Kansas, Dybantsa opted to stay close to home and spend his only season in college basketball in Provo, Utah.
The forward has made quite an impression among fans and analysts, with many labeling him as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. He won the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup with the United States national team, adding championship pedigree to his still-young career.
AJ Dybantsa compared to 3 NBA stars
While he continues to display his confidence in himself and his team, Dybantsa draws comparisons to three NBA stars. He was previously compared to Kevin Garnett, but when it comes to the current NBA, Dybantsa’s game resembles three stars.
AJ Dybantsa #3 of Prolific Prep of Napa Christian poses for a portrait after their game against Accelerated Prep at Napa Valley College on February 25, 2024.
Jed Katz of Sports Illustrated identified three players AJ Dybantsa plays similarly to: Jaylen Brown, RJ Barrett and Anthony Edwards.
Katz says that Dybantsa and Brown can finish at the rim with their athleticism, but can also create their own shot away from the paint. When it comes to Barrett, Katz notes that the Toronto Raptors player “gets downhill so well,” something that Dybantsa does at a faster pace. As for Edwards, the trash-talking ability the Minnesota Timberwolves’ star possesses is remarkable, but Dybantsa isn’t far away.
The BYU Cougars aren’t considered top contenders for the championship entering this season, but Dybantsa is aiming to take his team to the top of the competition. The challenge won’t be easy, but the freshman set that goal for his squad.